RHODY's Great Lakes Adventure - ROV Technology Meets Shipwreck Archaeology

RHODY's Great Lakes Adventure - ROV Technology Meets Shipwreck Archaeology

July 31, 2025 · 23 min · Episode 103

About this episode

This episode explores how ROV technology is transforming underwater archaeology in the Great Lakes, featuring the story of a student discovering a new shipwreck.

Dive into the freshwater frontier of ocean exploration as we explore how a revolutionary compact ROV is transforming underwater archaeology in the Great Lakes. Join us for the incredible story of the first comprehensive survey of shipwrecks in Lake Ontario National Marine Sanctuary, where cutting-edge technology meets centuries-old maritime history. Discover how RHODY - a nimble, acrobatic underwater robot that can be transported in the back of a truck - recently surveyed 17 shipwrecks with unprecedented detail. From 3D photorealistic models created with gaming technology to students piloting sophisticated ROVs using Xbox controllers, this expedition is redefining what's possible in ocean exploration. Hear the thrilling tale of Susanna Maycut, a student who made maritime history during a midnight shift, discovering a previously unknown shipwreck while processing sonar data for the first time. Learn how this expedition democratized ocean exploration by prioritizing student involvement, connecting with 15 classrooms in real-time, and even enabling a paralyzed student to pilot the ROV remotely from his home. This episode showcases how modern ocean science is becoming more…

People in this episode

Guest: Susanna Maycut

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Lake Ontario National Marine Sanctuary

Products: RHODY

Places: Great Lakes, Lake Ontario

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